Polaris Introduces 2013 GEM Electric Vehicles

MEDINA, MINN.—On the tail of its one-year anniversary of acquiring GEM vehicles, Polaris Industries Inc. is introducing its model year 2013 Polaris GEM vehicles to market. The premium line of compact electric vehicles comes with new and improved features and options to provide businesses a best in class solution for any transport or light-utility need. The new model year rollout also includes a new creative platform and an updated look to the brand’s website.

Since the compact electric vehicle line was acquired by Polaris in June 2011, the company has spent significant resources to improve the vehicles’ performance and increase market visibility through the Polaris nationwide dealer network.

“It’s been a great first year of having GEM vehicles as part of the Polaris stable,” said Greg Thompson, small vehicles marketing manager at Polaris Industries. “We’ve nearly doubled the number of dealers carrying GEM vehicles and have seen a 70 percent increase of sales orders from these dealers since the acquisition. We are confident the model year improvements and new creative platform will continue the brand’s growth with Polaris dealers and their commercial customers.”

Improved Braking, Suspension Technology

New standard features on all 2013 GEM e2, e4, e6, eS, eL and eL XD models include high-low beam headlamps for improved visibility while driving, and a day-night mirror that offers the ability to reduce reflective glare. Also included are improved front brakes, suspension technology borrowed from Polaris’ leading power sports products, improved steering components for greater control and enhanced foot pedals for easier operation and better ergonomics.

To coincide with the 2013 models, GEM developed a new creative platform which includes a new logo treatment and a redesigned consumer website. Platform messaging focuses on the electric cars being backed by 60 years of Polaris quality and proven performance, with print and online advertisements tailored to specific vertical markets to demonstrate how GEM can help complete essential commercial tasks.

Classified as low-speed vehicles, or neighborhood electric vehicles, GEM cars reach a top speed of 25 mph, are street legal and can be driven on most city streets with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. With zero emissions, the vehicles can be driven both indoors and outdoors.